Netflix is being urged to commission a new documentary charting the fallout from an unofficial Bridgerton event that was hosted in the US.
Devotees of the period romance on Netflix were promised a ball that would allow them to 'step into the enchanting world of the Regency-era', but attendees were left seething after splurging hundreds on tickets only to find the event fell well below expectations.
The Hollywood Reporter claimed that costumed party-goers ended up sitting on the floor, with nothing more than KitKats for purchase and entertainment that boiled down to one solitary stripper. Pictures were posted on social media of the event which was apparently advertised as an opportunity to "step into the enchanting world of the Regency-era...for an evening of sophistication, grace and historical charm."
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Onlookers have been drawing comparisons to the rogue Willy Wonka experience in Scotland that went viral earlier this year, reports the Daily Star. The event has also been likened to the infamous Fyre Festival - a music event that was billed as luxury but failed to deliver on its promises.
The Bridgerton ball event was not at all affiliated with Netflix, although the streaming platform does host a touring Bridgerton experience event called The Queen's Ball. This was instead billed as the Detroit Bridgerton Themed Ball with tickets costing between $150 and $1,000.
Bridgerton fans have been up in arms on behalf of the eventgoers, with many taking to social media to express their outrage at the mishap. One social media user voiced their empathy: "The sad part is, the guests all looked phenomenal and clearly really wanted this event. Even saw some people arriving in horse and carriage. I hope everyone gets their money back. This is insane."
Another fan pointed out that the debacle seemed tailor-made for a Netflix documentary, considering the streaming giant's history with such projects. Their comment read: "Netflix made a documentary on Fyre Festival, now they should do a series on the Willy Wonka experience and this Bridgerton Ball."
A local TV news feature included an interview with one attendee. They said: "The way it was described was this would be [a] Bridgerton event and we were going to have classical music, a good dinner, and there was going to be a play."
Another dismayed guest vented on Reddit, writing: "It was absolutely HORRENDOUS. There was nowhere to sit. Although the venue was nice, the decor was sparse and extremely tacky. It wasn't even Bridgerton themed! We spent $400 on tickets for a complete bs experience!".
Uncle N Me LLC, the organiser behind the event, have since come forward with an apology. In a statement, they shared: "We understand that not everyone had the experience they hoped for at our most recent event Sunday night at The Harmonie Club, and for that, we sincerely apologise."
"Our intention was to provide a magical evening, but we recognize that organizational challenges affected the enjoyment of some guests. We take full responsibility and accountability for these shortcomings."
"Please know that we are working diligently to address all concerns to ensure that all guests have the enjoyable experience they deserve... we are committed to doing everything in our power to make this right."
